When I submitted a library request for One Writer's Beginnings, I chanced upon this book as well and made a second request simultaneously. I had long desired to peruse Welty's photos and thoughts at some juncture, and it truly was a wonderful experience.

This book was a labor of love, crafted near the end of Welty's life from the photographs she took during the 1930s and 40s in Mississippi churchyards. It is abundantly clear that she was captivated by the diverse gravestone motifs, many of which mirror 19th-century values and beliefs. All the photos are in black and white. Some are almost like portraits of folk art, bringing a smile to my face and recurring in my memory.

This book combines several of my intense interests: photography, old cemeteries, old buildings, the American South, and Eudora Welty. As Welty stated in the introduction, Mississippi had no art except in cemeteries. Having witnessed parts of the glorious cemeteries near Boston, I believe I fathom her sentiment. The art in old cemeteries is personal and so much more.

And Elizabeth Spencer, in her introduction, states: [Welty] is not, as she has told us in One Writer's Beginnings, a "believer" in the traditional sense of the word. What comes through to us here and in her fiction is her sense of reverence for life's mysteries, death being one of those. But sometimes, even in the grim face of it, we can't help but laugh. How not to when we see the little winged children racing about with wreaths on a matched pair of Jackson tombs, or a whole sheep, lying atop another, looking wildly astonished to be there? (p 20)

The photographs are accompanied by selections from Welty's writings. I wholeheartedly recommend this if it appears to align with any of your areas of interest.

Touching photographs taken in graveyards have a profound impact on our emotions.

Many of these photographs, especially those of infants, evoke intense feelings of sadness and grief.

The stillness of the images seems to capture the essence of the departed souls, making them come alive in a way.

It is truly amazing how the photographer was able to freeze these moments in time, creating stationary images that are so deeply touching and heartfelt.

Each photograph tells a story, a story of a life that was cut short or a loved one who is no longer with us.

Looking at these photographs, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment we have with our loved ones.

They also serve as a reminder that even in death, there is beauty and a sense of peace.

The graveyard photographs have a way of connecting us with the past and making us reflect on our own mortality.

They are a powerful testament to the human spirit and the ability to find meaning and beauty in even the most difficult of circumstances.

I'm a sucker for old churches, graveyards, and black and white photography.

There's something about the solemnity and mystery of old churches that always draws me in. The ancient architecture, the stained glass windows, and the quiet atmosphere make me feel a sense of peace and connection to the past.

Graveyards, too, have a strange allure. The tombstones and monuments tell the stories of those who came before us, and walking among them can be a humbling and thought-provoking experience.

And black and white photography! It has a timeless quality that captures the essence of a moment in a way that color photography just can't. The contrast between light and dark, the shadows and textures, add depth and drama to every image.

So when I picked up this book, I knew I was in for a treat. And I wasn't disappointed! The author's use of these three elements - old churches, graveyards, and black and white photography - created a hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric read that I couldn't put down.

If you're like me and have a soft spot for these things, then I highly recommend this book. It's a must-read for anyone who loves history, mystery, and beautiful photography.

I don't think I've ever read any of Eudora Welty's work. So, even after having read the preface, I still don't believe I fully understand the connection between her work and gravestone photographs. However, it appears that her writing has significant themes related to graves and graveyards.

Although I'm not extremely familiar with her, I do have an appreciation for cemeteries and the artistry that can be found within them. This book is filled with (black and white) photographs of elaborate marble and some ironwork. And I must admit, the bug-eyed marble sheep on page 73 brought a smile to my face.

The images in this collection offer a unique perspective on the often overlooked beauty and history of gravestones. Each photograph seems to tell a story, whether it's of the person laid to rest or the craftsmanship that went into creating the monument.

Even without a deep knowledge of Welty's work, these photographs can still be enjoyed for their aesthetic value and the sense of tranquility that cemeteries can sometimes evoke. It makes me wonder what other hidden gems of art and history can be discovered in the cemeteries around us.

These are truly awesome photos! They really capture the essence and beauty of the cemeteries. My only minor complaint would be that I wish she had labeled the name of each cemetery directly underneath the photo. That would have made it so much easier to identify and keep track of. Another option could have been to organize them by cemetery. This would have given a more coherent and structured feel to the collection. Nevertheless, these photos have had such an impact on me that they now make me really want to embark on a road trip to Mississippi. I can just imagine myself driving through the state, visiting these cemeteries, and experiencing their unique atmosphere for myself. It would be an amazing adventure!

This is a simple book that contains a collection of lovely photos.

Each photo tells a unique story and captures a moment in time.

The simplicity of the book allows the beauty of the photos to shine through.

Whether it's a picture of a beautiful landscape, a cute animal, or a smiling face, these photos have the power to bring joy and inspiration.

The book is perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of the world around them and want to have a collection of lovely photos to enjoy.

It can be placed on a coffee table, bedside table, or taken with you on the go.

Overall, this simple book with its lovely photos is a wonderful addition to any home or personal collection.

What a truly charming little book this is!

It is filled with 90 black-and-white photographs that were expertly snapped by the grand dame of Southern literature in the churchyards of Mississippi during the 1930s and 40s. She once said, “Mississippi had no art except cemeteries.”

Miss Welty simply trained her lens on whatever caught her interest. Angels make more frequent appearances than any other figure. One particularly unusual stone that I have a special liking for is coffin-shaped, sheltering a moon-faced girl with staring eyes. The outline of her life is inscribed on a tablet on her chest. I have never come across anything quite like it before. There is also a life-sized rendition of the Old Rugged Cross, complete with a clinging virgin. Several stone dogs stand guard over their masters’ graves. A whole flock of lambs sleeps atop children’s graves, including a startled sheep whose eyes bulge out at the camera.

Among the photographs, excerpts from Welty’s fiction and essays are presented, along with her reminiscences of the photographing trips which were recorded in her 90th year.

As Welty’s friend Elizabeth Spencer notes in her introduction, all of Welty’s art – whether it be photography, fiction, or essays – “is an effort to rescue life from oblivion.” These lovely photos undoubtedly serve that purpose. It is noted at one point that these memorials have endured decades of winter and abuse since Welty took her photos. It is highly likely that if any of these sculptures still exist, they are in a worse state of disrepair. However, Welty preserved them. This book, much like a time machine, transports them into the present.

This review originated from Morbid Curiosity #6.

I have always had a great passion for visiting old cemeteries and using my camera to record the old grave markers. There is something deeply fascinating and mysterious about those ancient resting places.

So, it comes as no surprise that I truly enjoyed this compilation of photographs that Welty took in the thirties and forties. The book offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era.

It begins with some of the author's profound thoughts during her ninetieth year, which add a layer of wisdom and reflection to the collection.

The photographs themselves are not only visually captivating but are often accompanied by a passage from her writing. This combination of image and text creates a powerful and evocative experience, allowing the reader to step into Welty's world and understand the emotions and stories behind each photograph.

Overall, this book is a wonderful tribute to Welty's talent and a must-read for anyone interested in photography, history, or the human experience.

I have a deep love for Eudora Welty.

Well, to be more specific, I am in awe of her photography. Her work in this field is truly remarkable.

I have this plan to read more of her books in the near future.

When you think about it, cemetery photography has the potential to be rather cliche. However, Welty's collection of cemetery photographs is quite the opposite.

It is a fascinating body of work that manages to capture the essence and beauty of these often overlooked places.

Her unique perspective and artistic eye bring a new life to the subject matter.

Each photograph tells a story and evokes a sense of mystery and solemnity.

I can't wait to explore more of her work and discover the hidden gems within.

It's like embarking on a journey of discovery through her lens.

I'm sure it will be an enriching and rewarding experience.

This remarkable book, just like Miss Welty's captivating short stories, has the unique charm that invites readers to peruse it time and time again.

Each time one delves into its pages, something new and previously unnoticed will emerge, captivating the observer's attention.

The pictures within this book are not to be overlooked. They demand careful study in order to fully appreciate the depth and beauty they hold.

It is a thought-provoking work that often evokes a sense of nostalgia.

The author presents a humorous and quite interesting perspective on how people remember and memorialize the dead.

It makes one reflect on the various ways in which we honor and keep the memory of our loved ones alive.

Overall, this book is a treasure trove of literary and artistic value that is sure to engage and delight readers on multiple levels.

Such beautiful and heartfelt photographs truly have the power to touch our souls. Each image seems to tell a story, capturing a moment in time that is both precious and unique. The colors are vivid, the compositions are masterful, and the emotions are palpable. Whether it's a landscape that takes our breath away, a portrait that reveals the inner essence of a person, or a candid shot that makes us smile, these photographs have a way of making us feel something deep within. They remind us of the beauty that exists in the world around us, and the importance of taking the time to appreciate it. We can get lost in these images, imagining ourselves in the scene, experiencing the same emotions as the photographer. Such beautiful and heartfelt photographs are a true art form, and a gift to us all.